MORRISTOWN, N.J.—OmniActive Health Technologies achieved self-affirmed GRAS (generally recognized as safe) status for the company's OmniXan® RR-zeaxanthin from natural paprika, confirming its safety for use in functional foods and beverages.

The process involved an intensive review of safety and toxicology data by an independent panel of highly qualified scientists. 

"Food and beverage manufacturers are recognizing the growing consumer interest in products that can help them maintain healthy vision," said Lynda Doyle, VP of global marketing, OmniActive. "RR-zeaxanthin is among the three principle macular carotenoids, which also includes meso-zeaxanthin and lutein; they each have their own unique, distinct roles and work together collectively in maintaining healthy vision. Since our bodies cannot produce RR-zeaxanthin, it is crucial that we obtain it through our diets or supplementation."

OmniXan® contains 3R, 3'R zeaxanthin, a potent quencher of singlet oxygen and free radicals concentrated in the center of the macula, absorbing specific wavelengths of light which could damage the retina. OmniXan® is made from a wholefood GRAS source, paprika, which is grown and extracted in the United States. The product is derived from a carefully controlled, vertically integrated source and manufactured in cGMP (current good manufacturing practice) facilities. OmniXan® is available in vegetarian beadlets and oil suspensions.